A massive blow for the Rossoneri! On Sunday, April 26, 2026, AC Milan confirmed that midfield legend Luka Modrić will miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season following a serious facial injury during the goalless draw against Juventus.
The 40-year-old veteran was forced off in the 80th minute after a heavy aerial collision with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli. While the stalemate kept Milan in 3rd place and on track for Champions League qualification, the loss of their midfield general casts a shadow over the final four matches of the campaign
1. The Injury: A Race Against Time
The extent of the damage became clear on Monday morning following emergency tests at the La Madonnina Clinic.
The Diagnosis: AC Milan officially confirmed a "complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone" (cheekbone).
The Surgery: Modrić underwent a successful operation on Monday, April 27, led by Dr. Luca Autelitano. While the surgery went perfectly, the recovery timeline makes a return to club action this season impossible.
World Cup Watch: With the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico starting on June 11, the Croatia captain is now in a race to be fit. Reports suggest he will be able to lead his country in their opener against England on June 17, likely while wearing a protective carbon-fiber mask.
2. Strategic Impact: Life Without Luka
Luka Modrić has been the heartbeat of Milan’s midfield this season, making 36 competitive appearances and providing the veteran leadership needed for their Top 4 charge.
The Points Gap: Milan currently sits 6 points clear of 5th-place Roma. With only 12 points left to play for, they are close to securing UCL football, but they'll have to cross the finish line without their talisman.
Contract Uncertainty: Modrić is in the final months of his one-year deal. While he has an option to extend for another season, this injury leaves a question mark over whether we’ve seen his last appearance in a Milan shirt.
3. Support from Croatia
National team coach Zlatko Dalić released a statement of support shortly after the surgery:
"I've been talking to Luka and wished him a speedy recovery. I am convinced he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup. As our captain, he will lead us into another major competition this summer."